Programs & Events

Green Village Series: Documentary H2OilMonday, August 10, 7:00 PM

Conservation Plainfield hosts the documentary H2Oil, which traces the balance between the need to preserve water and the global demand for oil. Conservation Plainfield members will also share how this local, volunteer organization promotes environmental education. Register here.

Mary Kubica Book SigningTuesday, August 117:00 PMHelp us welcome back Plainfield author Mary Kubica who has released her second novel of psychological suspense, Pretty Baby. Books will be available to purchase for $24.95 + tax at the event. There will be a reading, Q&A, and signing to follow. Register here.

Learn about what resources are available for creative writers. This program is the perfect place for writers who want to learn more about the publishing industry and what agents and editors are looking for. Register here.

A Novel IdeaBook Discussion GroupThursday, August 137:00 PMAugust's selection is Close Your Eyes, Hold Handsby Chris Bohjalian. Pick up a copy at the Reference Desk and join us for the discussion.

Advanced Genealogy WorkshopMonday, August 24, 7:00 PM

Start putting those research skills together and interpreting your documents. Also learn how to search sources like city directories, coroner's inquests and more. Register here.

Self Defense for SeniorsThursday, August 27, 11:00 AM

It's never too late to learn a few simple moves to help defend yourself. In just one hour, you'll have the skills needed to overcome a larger or stronger person. Dress comfortably for this interactive class. Register here.

Technology Training

Register for FREE technology training on topics such as Microsoft Excel, Word, Internet, Social Media, Genealogy and much more. To view the upcoming schedule and to register, visit the Events Calendar. You can also register by calling 815-327-2515. Space is limited, so reserve your spot now.

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What's New at Your Library

The Plainfield Public Library District will host a public meeting to update the community about a possible expansion on Wednesday, August 12 at 7 p.m. in the Library’s Small Meeting Room. Another meeting for the Library’s Citizens Task Force will take place on Thursday, August 13 at 7 p.m. at the Plainfield Township Community Center, 15014 S. Des Plaines St. Anyone is welcome to join the task force, which is a group of local community members that support the Library’s plans to expand.

Both meetings are a follow-up from earlier meetings about the expansion that occurred in June and July, when the Library received feedback from the community about several architectural concept designs, presented by Nagle Hartray Architects.

On Tuesday, August 11 at 7:00 PM, help us welcome back bestselling Plainfield author Mary Kubica, whose second novel of psychological suspense, Pretty Baby, has been named not only one of the best twelve books of the season by People Magazine but also also received glowing praise from NPR, Kirkus Reviews and Publisers Weekly. Books will be available to purchase for $24.95 + tax at the event. There will be a reading, Q&A, and signing to follow. Register here.

The Library is known for hosting a tremendous amount of programs for adults, teens and children. But back in the 1990s, when the population of Plainfield was still that of a small farm town, the Library only offered programs for children. In 1993, attendance for programs was 2,214. This past year, the Library’s program attendance (for children, teens and adults) was 64,872 – nearly 30 times the amount it was 22 years ago – and it is still using the same space.

The Friends of the Library are seeking crafters and vendors to sell unique and handcrafted items at their annual Art and Craft Fair being held on Saturday, September 19, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM in the Library’s parking lot.

Let's recycle. While you're organizing this summer, be sure to save all your gently-used books (children's, hardcovers and paperbacks) CDs, DVDs and audiobooks for The Friends Book Sale. Donations are being collected from Wednesday, August 12 to Wednesday, August 19 in the lower level of the Library during normal business hours. Click on more info for Book Sale hours.

SYNC gives away 2 FREE audiobook downloads each week from May 7 to August 13 that are yours to keep. Every week over the summer, a current Young Adult title is paired thematically with a Classic or Required Summer Reading title and are delivered through the Overdrive app. Twenty-eight titles will be given away over 14 weeks starting May 7.

Click View Latest Issue to see a sampling of some of the new movies and TV series being added this month. You may also sign up to receive this monthly newsletter of the Library's new movies & TV series by clicking on subscribe.

Looking for FirstSearch databases such as ERIC or MEDLINE? You can find all 12 FirstSearch databases in WorldCat Discovery. This new search engine makes it easy to locate information from scholarly journals, magazines, newspapers, and more.